A damning independent report into the state of Cornwall’s current NHS dentistry provision makes ‘grim reading’ according to Debbie Gilbert, CEO of Healthwatch Cornwall – the independent body that carried out the research.
The in-depth survey covers a six-month period and involved 96 dental practices, 1097 members of the public and collaboration with several key stakeholders – including Access Dental, Smile Together, Kernow Health CIC, and Public Health at Cornwall Council.
Key findings concluded that the severe lack of access to NHS dentists has led to a rise in dental emergencies, hospital admissions, and dangerous self-treatment attempts. Underfunding and structural flaws are highlighted – as are geographic barriers and the impact on other healthcare services.
Only 6% of those surveyed were aware of how to access NHS dental care and low-income individuals, those with disabilities and rural residents appeared disproportionately affected by the crisis.
As of 2 September 2024, the report states 34,250 people were on the waiting list for NHS dental care in Cornwall.
“We published our 61-page report on 1 November and circulated it widely,” said Healthwatch Cornwall CEO Debbie Gilbert.
“The results make grim reading and clearly indicate an urgent need to resolve a situation that affects everyone in Cornwall – particularly the most vulnerable.
“Our recommendations are to introduce flexible NHS contracts, improve waiting list management, collaborate more openly with stakeholders, enhance recruitment and retention of NHS dentists, implement a mobile dentist service, address barriers and promote better oral hygiene.
“There is a lot to do and I’m looking forward to presenting the report to the Integrated Care Board in December. Hopefully the board’s stated resolve to ‘serve our population better with access to NHS dentistry’ will lead to much-needed urgent improvements.
“This is a crisis and tackling it is imperative.”
Healthwatch Cornwall is part of a nationwide Healthwatch network. The not-for-profit organisation listens to the issues that really matter to people in Cornwall and is entirely independent and impartial.
‘The Dental Crisis in Cornwall: Your Questions Answered’ is available on the Healthwatch Cornwall website.
